Coin Imaging Sensor Assemblies for High-Speed Discrimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical coin discriminating devices suffer from high discrimination errors due to variations in coin surface reflectance and aging, are slow, unreliable, and costly, with limited spectral capture capabilities, and require significant space for imaging.
Innovation Solution
The use of multi-wavelength, high-resolution coin imaging sensor assemblies with one-dimensional or two-dimensional optical sensors that capture detailed images of coins moving at high speeds, employing advanced lighting configurations and image processing to accurately authenticate and denominate coins, including those made of non-metallic materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional optical coin discriminating devices are used, then coin processing can be automated, but discrimination errors increase due to variations in coin surface reflectance and aging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using multiple wavelengths of light (e.g., UV, visible, infrared) instead of a single wavelength to illuminate coins. This multi-wavelength approach captures different optical characteristics of coins, including fluorescent and phosphorescent properties, enabling more accurate discrimination between genuine and counterfeit coins while reducing errors caused by surface reflectance variations and aging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-point or single-line optical sensors to two-dimensional array sensors that capture complete coin images. This dimensional change provides comprehensive spatial information about coin surfaces, edges, and features, significantly improving discrimination accuracy and reducing errors while maintaining automated processing.
2Productivity
If traditional optical coin discriminating devices are used, then coin processing can be performed, but processing speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by capturing complete two-dimensional images of coins at high speed using array sensors as coins pass through the processing system. This preliminary image capture occurs before detailed analysis, allowing the system to process multiple coins simultaneously and maintain high processing speeds while ensuring reliable discrimination through comprehensive data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical coin handling and sequential optical inspection with a streamlined system using two-dimensional array sensors and multi-wavelength illumination. This substitution enables parallel processing of multiple coins, dramatically increasing processing speed while maintaining or improving reliability through enhanced optical characterization.
3Extent of automation
If traditional optical coin discriminating devices are used, then coin processing can be automated, but the system becomes costly and requires significant space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a compact multi-wavelength illumination system and two-dimensional sensor array that performs multiple functions: capturing coin images, analyzing optical properties across different wavelengths, detecting fluorescent and phosphorescent characteristics, and discriminating coin authenticity. This integrated approach consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate devices into a single compact unit, reducing space requirements while maintaining automated processing capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly reduces discrimination errors, enhances processing speed and reliability, and effectively authenticates coins with complex optical characteristics, improving efficiency and accuracy in bulk coin processing.
Implementation Method 1
one-dimensional or two-dimensional optical sensors that capture detailed images of coins moving at high speeds
Implementation Method 2
employing advanced lighting configurations and image processing to accurately authenticate and denominate coins
Data Source
AI summary
Currency processing systems, coin processing machines, coin imaging sensor assemblies and methods of making and methods of using the same are presented herein. A currency processing system is disclosed which includes a housing with a coin input area for receiving coins and coin receptacles for stowing processed coins. A disk-type coin processing unit, which is coupled to the coin input area and coin receptacles, includes a rotatable disk for imparting motion to coins, and a sorting head for separating and discharging coins to the coin receptacles. A sensor assembly is mounted to, adjacent or within the sorting head adjacent the rotatable disk. The sensor assembly includes a sensor circuit board with photodetector elements and light emitting devices. An illumination control device is communicatively coupled to and operable for controlling the light emitting device(s). A photodetector control device is communicatively coupled to and operable for controlling the sensor circuit board.